Greetings in the Lord,
Thank you for your interest in Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary. As Coordinator of Intellectual Formation, I am happy to review the intellectual program with you.
At Pope St. John XXIII we believe that our seminarians are offered a balanced program in a healthy, happy, and mature environment specifically suited for the adult learner. We seek to assist candidates in attaining the various skills and competencies necessary for today's priestly ministry, thus enabling them to communicate to others what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It is our belief that a solid education in biblical, historical, pastoral, moral, spiritual, liturgical, sacramental and systematic theological studies will nourish the spiritual life, deepen self-knowledge, promote confidence in articulating the Catholic faith, foster a sense of community and enhance the development of well-integrated and committed candidates. In essence, seminarians enter a process in which the fullest development of their talents is sought for the good of the Church.
Our Seminary has two intellectual programs:
- Master of Divinity (four-year program in theology on a graduate level)
- Pre-Theology (an optional one-year preparatory program in philosophy and undergraduate-level theology for candidates for whom it is deemed appropriate)
The curriculum of theological studies is designed to instill what is central to our Faith and Tradition in an integrated human, spiritual, and pastoral formation program. In an age when good pastoral leaders are needed more than ever, instructors familiar with pastoral work and parish life are preparing future ordained ministers of God’s people here at Pope St. John XXIII.
Thank you again for your interest. We hope you will find this information valuable as you follow the path along which the Lord is calling you.
Sincerely,
Rev. Joseph Zwosta
Coordinator of Intellectual Formation